Cole Palmer is undoubtedly one of the most in-form players in the Premier League right now and potentially world football. After a breakout season in 2023/24, he’s already proving it was no fluke. As Chelsea’s main man, it’s vital they have him available more often than not, which means they must manage his minutes.

Palmer, 22, has been a revelation since swapping Manchester City for Chelsea just over a year ago. The attacking midfielder has quickly established himself as a serious talent, scoring goals and providing assists. But after so much football since arriving at Stamford Bridge, it’s key that his fitness load is monitored, which will allow him to play consistently at the top of his game for the West Londoners and England.

In all competitions in 2023/24, Palmer made forty-eight appearances, scoring a stunning twenty-seven goals from his attacking midfield berth while also weighing in with fifteen assists. He made forty-eight appearances in total, but crucially, he only started forty-three of those games, with his combined minutes registering at 3,734, which works out at 41.5 full games completed.

It appears as though Chelsea and manager Enzo Maresca are keen to manage how much football their talisman is playing in 2024/25, as he was left out of the club’s squad for the UEFA Conference League group stage, although he is expected to be registered if Chelsea advance as expected. Palmer was also absent from the matchday squad for Chelsea’s Carabao Cup tie at home to Barrow.

Chelsea have played seven Premier League games at the time of writing, with Palmer starting all seven. However, he has been withdrawn before full-time on two occasions. The first time came against Wolves, where Palmer had scored once and supplied three assists. Maresca also withdrew him against West Ham, another game in which he scored.

There’s arguably no player more in form than Palmer right now. From the seven games he’s started domestically, he’s scored six and made five assists. That’s eleven direct goal involvements in just seven outings. Palmer starts games and is expected to score, which is why he’s often searched for in the various Premier League betting markets that exist.

Every time Chelsea play and Palmer is on the pitch, there’s a big chance that both will be successful. Chelsea lost to Palmer’s former club, Manchester City, in their first fixture of the season, but since then, they’ve won four and drawn two, and it’s in these games that Palmer has scored six and made five assists. He scored four first-half goals against Brighton in stunning fashion, too.

If Chelsea and their fitness and medical staff are clever in tandem with Maresca, they could keep the England international at the top of his game consistently throughout the campaign. This will involve being subbed off in some games, usually when he’s already wreaked havoc on the opposition. He may also have to start a few matches on the bench. It will probably infuriate Palmer, but it will be a case of short-term pain for long-term gain.

Following a strong finish to the 2023/24 Premier League campaign, Chelsea have begun the current season in impressive form, to the delight of the Stamford Bridge faithful and punters supporting the Blues at the best betting websites.

Several factors have contributed to this solid start – notably the deadly counterattacking play and Nicolas Jackson’s improvement in front of goal. Another noteworthy element has been the influential introduction of a man who found himself in the shadows at Old Trafford.

Excellent Start to Loan Spell

Jadon Sancho’s arrival at Chelsea has brought an immediate spark, putting pressure on his teammates, particularly Mykhaylo Mudryk, whose struggles have been further highlighted by Sancho’s impressive start. Although Sancho hasn’t even completed a full 90 minutes on the pitch for Chelsea, his influence is already undeniable, with two assists in just two appearances.

In his debut start against West Ham, the 24-year-old delivered a sublime assist to set up Nicolas Jackson for the opening goal, just days after coming off the bench to help Christopher Nkunku net the winning goal against Bournemouth. With these two assists, Sancho has already matched Mudryk’s assist tally from last season — a concerning comparison for the Ukrainian winger.

£25m Bargain?

Mudryk, 23, who was signed for an eye-watering potential fee of £88 million, has struggled to make his mark at Stamford Bridge since arriving in January 2023. Despite making 18 Premier League starts last season and scoring five goals, his overall creativity has been lacking, with only two assists to his name throughout the campaign. On the other hand, Sancho, who joined on a season-long loan from Manchester United, has made an immediate impact and seems ready to cement his place in the starting lineup under Enzo Maresca.

Sancho’s loan deal includes an obligation to buy for around £25 million — a fraction of the price Chelsea paid for Mudryk. The contrast in value makes Sancho’s rapid adaptation even more impressive and a further indictment of Mudryk’s underwhelming 20-month spell in London.

All Round Contributor

The ripple effect of Sancho’s impressive performances also extends to the lingering questions surrounding his departure from Manchester United. After being exiled by Erik ten Hag, Sancho revived his form during a loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, helping the team reach the Champions League final. Although a permanent return to Germany never materialized, Chelsea quickly capitalized on the situation, benefiting from Sancho’s fresh determination and quality.

Sancho’s impact isn’t just in attack. His willingness to track back and contribute defensively has also impressed Maresca, who praised the winger’s work ethic on and off the pitch. This contrasts with Mudryk, who has struggled to adapt to the tactical demands of the Premier League, particularly defensively.

Mudryk Down the Pecking Order

With Joao Felix, Noni Madueke, and Pedro Neto competing for attacking roles, Mudryk could soon find himself sidelined if he fails to step up. Despite this, Mudryk will likely have opportunities to prove himself in upcoming fixtures, such as Chelsea’s Carabao Cup tie against Barrow and their UEFA Conference League campaign. These matches could provide the 23-year-old with crucial minutes to rebuild his confidence and fight for his place in the team.

While Mudryk’s future at Chelsea is not under immediate threat, the January transfer window could bring renewed speculation about his role in Maresca’s squad. For now, it’s essential that he finds consistency and follows Sancho’s lead in taking advantage of his opportunities on the pitch.

Ultimately, Sancho’s brilliant start has raised the bar at Chelsea, leaving Mudryk with a clear challenge — to fight for his place and prove his worth. Whether he can do so remains to be seen, but what’s certain is that Sancho has reinvigorated Chelsea’s attack, and his presence could play a pivotal role in the club’s pursuit of success this season.

As one of the most decorated clubs in English football history, Chelsea have tasted success in every domestic and European competition at least once and are always a popular choice for punters taking advantage of the best free bets available online.

On the back of a solid start to the Premier League season, Chelsea kicks off their 2024/25 Carabao Cup campaign with a home clash against League Two outfit Barrow A.F.C. on Tuesday, 24th of September. Will this be the beginning of a journey towards Wembley and a place alongside the following five League Cup-winning sides?

1965 Final: Chelsea 3–2 Leicester City (First League Cup Win)

Chelsea’s first significant achievement in the League Cup came in 1965, under manager Tommy Docherty. The final was played over two legs against Leicester City. Chelsea won the first leg at Stamford Bridge 3–2 and then secured a 0-0 draw in the second leg at Filbert Street to win their first-ever major trophy.

Led by stars like Bobby Tambling and Peter Bonetti, Chelsea showed resilience throughout the tournament. This victory was particularly historic as it marked the club’s emergence as a competitive force in English football. Though the League Cup wasn’t yet regarded as highly as other domestic competitions, this win laid the foundation for future successes.

1998 Final: Chelsea 2–0 Middlesbrough (Gianluca Vialli’s Era)

The late 1990s marked the rise of Chelsea as a true domestic and European power. Under player-manager Gianluca Vialli, Chelsea beat Blackburn Rovers, Southampton, Ipswich Town and London rivals Arsenal en route to a clash with a Bryan Robson-led Middlesbrough in the final.

With the North East club putting up stern resistance, the Blues needed extra time to get their hands on the trophy, thanks to strikes from Frank Sinclair and Roberto Di Matteo.

2005 Final: Chelsea 3–2 Liverpool (José Mourinho’s First Trophy)

Perhaps one of the most memorable League Cup finals for Chelsea fans came in 2005 when José Mourinho led the club to victory over Liverpool. The match was a thrilling encounter that required extra time. Liverpool took the lead after one minute through John Arne Riise, but Chelsea equalized in the 79th minute, courtesy of an own goal from Steven Gerrard.

In extra time, Chelsea took control with goals from Didier Drogba and Mateja Kežman to secure a 3–2 victory. This triumph was significant because it marked José Mourinho’s first trophy in English football, setting the stage for Chelsea’s domestic dominance in the years to come. The victory also solidified the reputation of Mourinho as a master tactician and Chelsea as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League and cup competitions.

2007 Final: Chelsea 2–1 Arsenal (Drogba’s Masterclass)

Two years after Mourinho’s first League Cup triumph, Chelsea once again reached the final in 2007 – this time facing a young Arsenal side brimming with talent. Arsenal took the lead early in the game through Theo Walcott, but Didier Drogba, who had developed a reputation for stepping up in big moments, equalized soon after with a smart finish from inside the area.

The match looked destined for extra time, but Drogba struck again late in the second half, scoring the winner with a trademark header. This 2–1 victory gave Chelsea their fourth League Cup trophy and reinforced the club’s winning mentality under Mourinho.

2015 Final: Chelsea 2–0 Tottenham Hotspur (Mourinho’s Return)

In 2015, José Mourinho was back at Chelsea for his second stint, and he once again guided the club to League Cup success. In the final, Chelsea faced their London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, a team that had beaten them 5-3 in the Premier League earlier in the season.

However, the final was a completely different affair, with Chelsea delivering a controlled and clinical performance. John Terry scored the opener just before halftime, and a Kyle Walker own goal in the second half secured a 2–0 victory for Chelsea. This win was significant as it was Mourinho’s first trophy during his second tenure at the club and set the tone for Chelsea’s Premier League title win later that season.

For the first time in several seasons, it is finally beginning to look like Chelsea have a set starting XI, a preferred unit for Enzo Maresca to work with in the league. The Blues are five games into the Premier League season and certain players are beginning to look like regulars for the new-look Chelsea team this season, whilst others are having to settle for places on the bench, and for minutes in the cup competitions.

The Backline

Robert Sánchez put in a man-of-the-match performance in the recent win away at Bournemouth and looks set to continue being Chelse’s main man between the sticks, despite the summer arrival of Filip Jörgensen.

Ahead of the Spaniard, Reece James is expected to start at right back after his most recent injury nightmare ends, with Malo Gusto a more than able deputy. The preferred centre back pairing is shaping out to be Wesley Fofana alongside Cobham’s own, Levi Colwill. Despite the likes of Axel Disasi, Benoît Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo waiting in the wings, Fofana and Colwill started every Premier League game so far, and are beginning to form a formidable partnership, with back to back away clean sheets.

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Finally, Euros winner Marc Cucurella has made the left back spot his own following a fantastic summer and a good start to the 24-25 season. Despite Ben Chilwell failing to get a move away in the summer, he looks set to be second, or even possibly third fiddle for the left-hand side of the defence – with Renato Veiga substituting in during the cup competitions so far.

The £200million Midfield

In the heart of the midfield, the duo of Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández look set to be deployed in the pivot providing the Blues with enough steal and craft in the heart of the pitch. Summer arrival Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, alongside fit-again Roméo Lavia will substitute in when Maresca needs to freshen things up.

Ahead of the more defensive-minded duo, Chelsea have an embarrassment of riches in the attacking department. Cole Palmer will spearhead the three behind the striker following his amazing debut season, as he continues to look like a steal at just £42.5million. On the wings, hattrick hero Noni Madueke is currently favoured on the right-hand side, with his Arjen Robben-like habit of cutting in onto his left and a great eye for goal, Maresca certainly seems to be favouring the 22-year-old.

The left-hand side, however, appears to be a little more up for grabs. Summer signings Pedro Neto and Jadon Sancho have both started there in recent weeks, whilst the frustrating figure of Mykhailo Mudryk is still determined to breakthrough, despite recent suggestions that he’s looking for a move out of the club in January.

Maresca hinted that Sancho will be his preferred starter there, with Neto set to be Madueke’s rival on the right. However, it is likely that all four players will chop and change quite often throughout the season, whilst João Félix has the unenviable task of trying to dislodge Palmer from the midfield.

Jackson Leads the Line

Regardless of some harsh criticism during his time at Stamford Bridge, Nicholas Jackson has enjoyed a very productive start to the season, continuing his fine form by netting twice and registering one assist in the victory over West Ham. Many Chelsea fans have been pleading for Christopher Nkunku to be given a regular starting birth upfront, but if Jackson continues to deliver, it’ll be the Frenchman who must settle for the number two spot.

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As the season progresses, it’ll be interesting to see how Maresca chops and changes his starting XI to handle the Premier League alongside all cup competitions, with every player likely to be given enough opportunity to prove their spot in the starting lineup. Perhaps even the likes of Chilwell, Carney Chukwuemeka and Cesare Casadei could even force their way into the starting eleven when injuries and suspensions begin to mount up.

With Maresca enjoying a good start to life in the Premier League, it’s refreshing to see a starting lineup that is looking somewhat settled, after the vast amount of rotation and injuries in recent seasons, and hopefully this can be the start of Chelsea’s charge back into the top four.

For the past 5 years, Chelsea have been looking for a superstar to replace the Eden Hazard shaped hole in their first eleven. Hazard enjoyed seven hugely successful years at Stamford Bridge, widely regarded as one of the best players in the world during his time in London. Lighting up the Premier League in a way that few Chelsea players have since the time of Gianfranco Zola, the eloquent Belgian finally moved to Real Madrid in 2019, leaving a huge hole in their attack that has yet to be replaced.

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The Champions League Winners

Surprisingly, Hazard was not part of either Chelsea team to win the Champions League – joining in the summer after the Blues’ heroic 2012 win in Munich and departing two years before Kai Havertz scored the winner in Porto.

However, it is in this 2021 squad where Chelsea were deep into their efforts to replace Hazard. Callum Hudson-Odoi, Hakim Ziyech, Timo Werner and Christian Pulisic were all deployed on the left-wing at times and all contributed strongly to that night in Porto, but none of them could make the spot their own. Inconsistent performance along with a lack of individual match winning performances that Hazard so often provided, lead to Chelsea continuing their search over the more recent seasons.

Boehly’s Big Adventure

Since the change of ownership when to Todd Boehly and Behdad Egbhali took over at Stamford Bridge, they have spent lavishly on trying to improve the squad, and once again attempting to replace the illustrious Belgian.

Infamously, Mykhailo Mudryk was signed for close to €100million along with a whole host of attacking talent. However, none are yet to become the world class talents that Chelsea so needs to compete for the top tier of trophies once more. Even Raheem Sterling, a four times Premier League winner, failed to fill the void and was quickly ousted from the squad in 2024.

In the most recent summer, Chelsea were once again embarking on a lavish spending spree in a bid to replace the Belgian, and provide that much needed spark on the left hand side of the pitch. Enter Pedro Neto.

A Portuguese Prodigy

Signed from Wolves for a reported fee of £51.3million, Chelsea’s signing of Neto came very much out of the blue, announced from nowhere. Largely seen as a rare hit for the Chelsea transfer department, Neto has a wealth of Premier League experience already thanks to his five seasons in the midlands. His talent can’t be questioned, and he’s shown glimpses of breathtaking play during his time in the Premier League so far, however questions remain over his fitness.

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Much like Reece James, Neto has endured repeated spells on the sidelines over the past half a decade, and it does raise the question as to why Chelsea invested such a large fee in a risky player. Neto’s first few weeks at Stamford Bridge have already been stop-start, with his minutes being carefully managed by Enzo Maresca. If Neto can enjoy an injury free season and make the left wing his own, his partnership with Cole Palmer in the number 10 role and Noni Madueke on the right wing, could be an emphatic attacking force for Chelsea.

Neto has the speed, trickery, confidence and eye for the spectacular that could see him finally replace Hazard to become a Stamford Bridge legend in his own right. But whether he can stay fit and make the step up to next level in his career, remains to be seen.

Ever since signing for Chelsea for a reported initial fee of €70million in January 2023, potentially rising to €100million, Mykhailo Mudryk has endured a frustrating and disappointing start to life in London. Chelsea famously pipped Arsenal to the signature of the Ukrainian, and he was initially seen as a very exciting signing – one who may finally be able to fill Eden Hazard’s illustrious boots.

As another summer of transfer chaos at Stamford Bridge comes to an end, you’d be forgiven for forgetting one or two of the new faces through the door in west London.

Since winning the Champions League back in 2021, a lot has changed for Chelsea. Todd Boehly is the new chairman, three managers have been fired, and the club has ultimately struggled to stay inside the top 4, having finished 12th and 6th in recent seasons. Not to mention, only Ben Chilwell and Reece James remain from the 2021 Champions League winning XI, symbolizing how much has changed in just over three years.

Now, it’s a new era for Chelsea. With Enzo Meraesca at the helm, the aim for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign is to make a huge push for the top 4 and finally return to Champions League football. Is this possible? Yes — especially now that Chelsea’s bloated £1bn squad finally looks like it’s starting to click, which was apparent towards the backend of last season when the club went on a great run of form under Mauricio Pochettino.

Premier League 2024/25: Chelsea Top 4 Odds 

According to the sportsbook insider site, Gamble USA, most sportsbooks have Chelsea listed with 9/4 odds to make the top 4. Unlike Manchester City and Arsenal, Chelsea aren’t an outright favorite to land a Champions League position, but the odds still reflect that most sportsbooks believe there’s a strong possibility they will. However, Chelsea are in the race against Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Tottenham, who are also tipped by bookies to push for a top 4 place during the 2024/25 season.

What Chelsea Need to Finish in the Top 4

If Chelsea are to finish inside the top 4, several things need to happen.

Firstly, Chelsea are in urgent need of an out-and-out striker, which the club has desperately missed over recent years. If Chelsea can get their hands on a top number 9 before the transfer window closes or even later on in January, then it’ll swing the top 4 odds in their favor.

Without signing a striker, though, they’ll be left to rely on Nicolas Jackson, who many believe isn’t the level that Chelsea need to reestablish themselves as a top 4 team. There’s also Christopher Nkunku and returning signing João Félix, who (despite being excellent players) are not out-and-out strikers. This is why Chelsea are currently pushing to sign Victor Osimhen, as the Napoli striker could be the missing part of the puzzle and turn them into a legitimate Premier League threat once again.

Another major plus for Chelsea will be if Cole Palmer can maintain his red-hot form from the 2023-24 season, where he truly put his name on the map. Palmer is also coming off an impressive Euro 2024, after making some exciting cameo appearances off the bench and even grabbing a goal in the final against Spain. Undoubtedly, if Palmer manages to improve on his form from last season and progress even further, Chelsea will be right up there during the business end of the campaign.

Just like in previous seasons, though, there are some factors that might hold Chelsea back during the 2024-25 season. As mentioned earlier, Chelsea’s squad is still extremely bloated and consists largely of young and unproven players. On top of this, new manager Enzo Maresca is lacking in “big club” experience, which could leave him vulnerable if Chelsea don’t get off to a good start. Mauricio Pochettino, Graham Potter, and Thomas Tuchel have all been sacked before him, so Maresca will have to start picking up results fast if he wants to avoid being added to Todd Boehly’s long list of sackings.

Who Are Chelsea’s New Signings? 

Todd Boehly has faced intense criticism since taking over at Chelsea, but nobody can deny that he isn’t afraid to spend big. Already, the squad he’s amassed is worth over £1bn, with many of the star players being signed to huge bumper contracts. And even though Chelsea’s spending has slowed down over recent months so that they can avoid FFP charges, the club has made (and is still making) some exciting moves in the transfer market. For the 2024/25 campaign alone, the Blues have signed:

• João Félix
• Tosin Adarabioyo
• Omari Kellyman
• Marc Guiu
• Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
• Renato Veiga

There’s also an extremely strong chance that Victor Osimhen, Ivan Toney, and Jadon Sancho, will be added to Chelsea’s list of summer signings, making the current squad one of the most valuable in European football history. However, signing players is the easy part — it’s getting the most out of them on the pitch that matters. Naturally, because Chelsea have so many players, Enzo Maresca will have to become a master at squad rotation and man management in a short space of time if he wants this season to be a success.

What’s clear is that Chelsea are sticking with their new transfer policy of signing players on extended deals in order to spread transfer fee costs while also maintaining player market value. For example, Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez are currently signed to nine-year deals, while the returning João Félix has just penned a 7-year contract. It’s certainly a controversial way of doing transfers, but time will tell whether it’s a business masterstroke by club owner Todd Boehly.

Will Chelsea Play Europa League Football This Season? 

Despite finishing 6th place under Pochettino, Chelsea will be playing Europa League football this season. Specifically, they’re playing in the Europa Conference League, which is only possible thanks to Chelsea’s excellent run of form towards the backend of last season. It will provide the Blues with an excellent opportunity to grab a trophy this season while earning automatic qualification for next season’s Europa League, too. This would also be Enzo Maresca’s first major trophy as a manager, so he’ll be desperate to go far in the competition.

Summary 

All signs point to Chelsea being in and around the top 4 come the end of the 2024/25 season. Enzo Maresca is looking to get off to a flying start, a large bulk of the squad now appears to be settled, and some big summer signings have just come through the door, including fan-favorite João Félix. So, if everything can click into place and the likes of Aston Villa and Newcastle have poor seasons, there’s nothing to stop Chelsea from landing third or fourth position in the Premier League table.

The summer transfer window is always exciting for us Blues fans, right? It’s like the football version of Christmas, with all the anticipation and surprises. And this year, Chelsea has been right in the thick of it. Let’s dive into all the latest comings and goings at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea New Signings

• Tosin Adarabioyo: This solid central defender just hopped over from Fulham for free. He’s got a sweet four-year deal and cut his teeth at Manchester City.
• Estevao Willian: This Brazilian wonderkid is already turning heads as one of South America’s brightest stars.
• Omari Kellyman: the talented midfielder is all ours now, thanks to a six-year deal snatched from Aston Villa.
• Marc Guiu: Marc is Chelsea’s new Spanish striker straight from Barcelona! Scored a winner in his first pro minute and has locked in a five-year contract.
• Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: Reuniting with his old Leicester boss Enzo Maresca, he’s on board with a five-year contract. With almost 200 games for the Foxes and their Player of the Year title, he’s no rookie.

Chelsea New Contracts

• Tyrique George just inked a deal to stay with Chelsea until 2027 (plus, there’s a bonus year if we want it!). This guy lit up the pitch for Chelsea’s Academy teams last season and even chilled on the first team’s bench a few times.
• Kaiden Wilson is sticking around for another two years, with a chance at a third. He’s been bleeding Chelsea blue since he was 13 and helped snag the Under-18 Premier League South title.
• Big news for Richard Olise! He’s secured another year of defending with Chelsea and maybe one more if things go well. He rocked it in ten matches for the Under-21s last season.

Chelsea Departures

• Thiago Silva is heading back to his roots! After a trophy-packed four years with Chelsea, he’s rejoining Fluminense in Brazil. We’ll miss our Champions League hero!
• Dion Rankine is off to Wigan Athletic after an eight-year adventure at Chelsea. He gave it his all, whether he was zipping down the wing or defending as a wing-back.
• Charlie Webster is teaming up again with Mark Robinson, his old Under-21 coach, over at Burton Albion. He’s come a long way from joining the Blues as a little Under-10 to sitting on the bench with the big guys.
• Hats off to Jamie Cumming, who’s just sealed a permanent move to Oxford United. He helped them climb up to the Championship last season while on loan.
• Ian Maatsen waved goodbye and said hello to Aston Villa. Remember his debut against Grimsby Town? That was the first of 16 memorable appearances for Chelsea.
• Omari Hutchinson made a splash with Chelsea after coming over from Arsenal in 2022. Following a stellar loan at Ipswich Town and their jump to the Premier League, he’s making that move a full-time gig.
• Lewis Hall, a true blue Academy grad, made his senior debut in 2022 and has now signed on with Newcastle permanently after a loan spell up North.
• Hakim Ziyech is taking his magic to Galatasaray. In his time here, he bagged a Champions League title, Super Cup, and Club World Cup, not to mention his 14 goals in 107 games.
• Chinonso Chibueze is set to show Stoke City what he’s got after growing up in the Chelsea ranks since the Under-10 days.
• And a special shoutout to Josh Brooking and Noah Hay as they wrap up their time with the Chelsea Academy. Thanks for the memories, lads!

Chelsea Loans

• Teddy Sharman-Lowe is sticking with Chelsea for another year! But first, he’s off to guard the net at Doncaster Rovers on loan for the 2024/25 season.
• Ted Curd is taking his goalkeeping talents to Hampton & Richmond Borough. He’s all set to rack up some serious experience in men’s football.
• Dylan Williams is hitting the road to Burton Albion on loan. If all goes well, there’s a chance he could make that spot his permanent home turf.

FAQs

How do transfers work?

Transfers involve negotiations between buying and selling clubs over a player’s transfer fee, personal terms with the player, and passing a medical examination. Once all parties agree, the transfer is completed, and the player is registered with the new club.

Can players refuse to transfer?

Yes, players can refuse to transfer if they do not agree to the personal terms offered by the buying club or if they simply wish to stay with their current club.

How do Chelsea Summer transfers affect your betting decisions?

Chelsea’s summer transfers can significantly impact betting decisions. New signings can strengthen the team, potentially improving their odds of winning matches and titles. Conversely, losing key players might weaken the squad. Bettors should assess the overall impact of the transfers on the team’s performance before placing bets. Interested fans can bet on Chelsea matches here.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it – all the ins, outs, and contract updates at Chelsea so far this summer. The mix of established stars, promising youngsters, and savvy signings has got us buzzing – how about you?

Well, for starters, it means that Chelsea has finally decided to raid a club that doesn’t have the words “Brighton & Hove Albion” in its name, which we suppose is a plus. However, the Dewsbury-Hall deal could have positive implications for the Chelsea squad in the upcoming season. This Championship player could be setting the Premier League alight, and he barely hammered into the FFP rules that Chelsea are pushed to abide by nowadays (even if Manchester City aren’t).

How Dewsbury-Hall performed last season

We know that many Chelsea fans don’t pay attention to the Championship. Sometimes, it is difficult enough to keep tabs on our team when we’re constantly failing. However, if you did glance at the Championship news, chances are that you would have seen everybody and their dog chatting about how well Dewsbury-Hall was performing for Leicester, who clinched the title on the last day of the season.

The 25-year-old midfielder (yes, midfielder), smashed in 12 goals and 14 assists. He was part of Leicester’s transition to a more attacking style of play. He did play more defensively the previous season, but it was the bringing in of more attack-minded players that helped to unlock Dewsbury-Hall’s potential. Well, some of his potential. Chelsea will unlock that full potential.

It unlocks midfield options

Chelsea wasn’t exactly the hardest hit with injuries last season, but there were a couple of scares. Thankfully, we’ve now got Dewsbury-Hall.

Dewsbury-Hall is a player who has shown he can handle anywhere in midfield. So, if we have a midfielder out for the count, Dewsbury-Hall can be slotted right in there and perform reasonably well. However, we do hope that he will be used in the position he is best known for performing well at – as the number 8.  It is here that we reckon we’ll benefit from one of the most popular sports betting features – in-play betting. We know that if he is playing number 8, he’ll smash in a few assists if the play lines up well.

He can even play as number 10

Owing to his talents – and what we’ve seen of him from the games he has played for Leicester – Dewsbury-Hall is going to play best in position 8. He is a box-to-box midfielder at heart, and he’ll be playing both on the defence and attack, which is absolutely what this team needs right now. We need more versatile players. However, he is also capable of playing as a number 10. There’s a good chance that he’ll be pushed more toward the attacking side of things than the defending side, since Caicedo, Gallagher and Fernández can handle that.

We reckon that there’ll be times when he will be called into action as a number 10, possibly if the squad is scrambling to get a goal in the dying minutes of the game (although, we hope he will be called into action before that).

In our opinion, he is more likely to perform a role as a double-pivot. He’ll transition into a second number 10 when Chelsea is on the attack. Well, sort of. The tactics will need to be played about with a bit, but we reckon that you’ll see Dewsbury-Hall doing a lot of attacking. He’ll be trying to push himself into the box quite a bit, particularly from the CM position.

He’ll provide service to the strikers

The Championship is a completely different kettle of fish from the Premier League, so we aren’t quite sure how Dewsbury-Hall will fare here. However, based on what we’ve seen him do in the Championship, we reckon that he’s going to do a bang-up job providing a ton of service to the strikers.

Dewsbury-Hall has proved that he loves to get the ball toward the strikers as quickly as possible, often down the side of the pitch. We wouldn’t be surprised if by the end of the year, Dewsbury-Hall ends up becoming one of our top assist players.

More pace

The new managerial style is probably going to become more possession-based. Sort of like what Graham Potter tried, but it’ll work (we hope). However, there’ll still be a lot of room for speed in the new Chelsea squad, and Dewsbury-Hall will probably be the one showing that speed.

We wouldn’t be surprised if Dewsbury-Hall not only creates a lot of assists but bangs in fewer power hits too. When playing for Leicester, he was a huge fan of managing to carve out space in the centre of the pitch. He probably will struggle against the fastest midfielders and defenders in the league, but we reckon that Dewsbury-Hall will end up creating way more space than you think, and he’ll have some banging solo goals.

Left foot…FINALLY!

Chelsea is seriously lacking players who can score with their left foot, so finally, it is nice to say we’ve got a player who can do that. Many of his goals last season came from the left foot.

He’s not going to impact Financial Fair Play all that much

After spending the last couple of years lining Brighton’s pockets with loads of cash, which ended up costing us nearly £50m per win, and some of it not benefiting Chelsea as a whole, there have been mutterings that Chelsea needs to do something to not fall foul of Financial Fair Play rules, so it is nice to know that we managed to pick up Dewsbury-Hall on the cheap. A snip at just £30 million, although on a six-year contract.

If we can shift a bit of the dead weight in the Chelsea squad during the next couple of months, there’s a good chance that we won’t have any issues with FFP, and that could help the squad going forward. Although, we do still have the problem of having a ton of players on contracts that are far lengthier than many of them deserve. But that’s a story for another day. All you need to know right now is that you’ve got the lowdown on how Dewsbury-Hall will impact our squad in the 24/25 season.

England go into Euro 2024 with an excellent chance of winning their first major trophy since 1966. There are two Chelsea players involved in Gareth Southgate’s squad this summer in Germany.

It is not just with England that Chelsea are well represented at the European Championships. Here are two Blues who will be in action for other nations and will have eyes on the trophy themselves.

Marc Cucurella (Spain)

Chelsea full-back Marc Cucurella has been a regular in Spain’s starting XI in 2024. He will be hoping his performances for club and country this year have been enough to be in Luis de la Fuente’s team for Euro 2024.

Spain begin their campaign with a tough test against Croatia, and they are 20/23 in the Paddy Power football odds for that match. Should Cucurella be named in the starting XI, his job will be to stop the likes of Luka Modric, Mateo Kovacic, and Andrej Kramaric from finding the scoresheet.

In the bet on Euro 2024 outright market, Spain are fifth best in the betting at 8/1. They reached the semi-finals at the last edition of the European Championship, losing on penalties to the eventual winners, Italy. They were also victorious in the UEFA Nations League in 2023, defeating Croatia in the final.

Firts day at the office 💙 pic.twitter.com/TUxMZSvunx

— Marc Cucurella (@cucurella3) August 5, 2022

Cucurella was a key member of Mauricio Pochettino’s side, which finished the 2023/24 Premier League season strongly. He made a slow start to his career at Stamford Bridge, but he is now showing why the club paid £55 million to secure his services from Brighton.

Romelu Lukaku (Belgium)

Striker Romelu Lukaku was at AS Roma on loan last season, where he played most of the campaign for former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. The Blues player scored 21 goals in all competitions.

Romelu Lukaku has FOUR goals in 37 minutes 🤯 pic.twitter.com/mbcl11CcIl

— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 19, 2023

Lukaku remains a key member of the Belgium team. He has now played 115 times for his country, scoring 85 goals. The 31-year-old has been part of the golden Belgian generation who have underperformed in big tournaments.

There is less pressure on Belgium heading into Euro 2024 as they are not being discussed as one of the favourites. The Red Devils are now managed by Domenico Tedesco, after Roberto Martinez left his role in charge of the nation in 2023.

Lukaku’s future beyond this summer at Chelsea is likely to be discussed with new head coach Enzo Maresca after the European Championship. The Italian is sure to be keeping a close eye on the striker’s performances in Germany, as will several major clubs across Europe, including his former clubs Roma and Inter Milan.

With the likes of Kevin de Bruyne, Leandro Trossard, Youri Tielemans, and Orel Mangala all supporting him in the Belgium team, Lukaku should be one of the leading scorers in the tournament. However, they will need to prove themselves in the knockout stages when they face one of the bigger nations in the competition.

The final of Euro 2024 takes place on Sunday, 14th of July in Berlin. It will conclude the 17th edition of the international tournament.

Chelsea had the second-lowest average age in the 2023/24 Premier League season. Only relegated Burnley had a younger average squad (24 years and 257 days) compared to the Blues (24 years and 280 days.

The value of youth appeared somewhat lost on Chelsea at times this season though. Chelsea were eventually outfought in the EFL Cup final by a battle-hardened Liverpool after extra time. In addition, several missed chances in their FA Cup semi-final against Man City were eventually punished, as Mauricio Pochettino’s side lost 1-0.

At times, it appeared as though the Blues’ £400 million transfer spend in the summer of 2023 might backfire in the Premier League too. Chelsea won just four of their opening 13 matches, dropping points against West Ham, Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford.

Pochettino’s young outfit has shown more resilience and cutting-edge late in the season, however. Chelsea are unbeaten in 14 of their last 15 league matches and have won their previous four in a row.

Several young players have stepped up in a largely challenging campaign too, including Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer.

However, Pochettino might want to see the following players contribute further to the first team in the 2024/25 campaign to improve Chelsea’s scores and odds in the Premier League.

Noni Madueke

Noni Madueke was one of the young players to arrive on a seven-and-a-half-year contract at Stamford Bridge in January 2023. There were high hopes for the winger, who made 34 goal contributions in 80 games for PSV Eindhoven.

Initially, Madueke struggled for form in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign, scoring just one goal in 16 appearances.

However, the £28.5 million arrival showed greater consistency this season. Madueke made seven goal contributions in the Premier League. In his last eight league matches, Madueke has scored three goals and made two assists.

Overall, Madueke has shown Pochettino why he should be starting next season. Moreover, the 22-year-old had injury struggles midway through the season. As a result, a full pre-season and greater confidence following decent late-season form will give Madueke momentum to break into the Blues first-team.

Lesley Ugochukwu

Midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu was another big-money signing last summer. The 20-year-old arrived in West London, also on a seven-year contract, for nearly £25 million from Rennes.

Despite his young age, Ugochukwu joined Chelsea with plenty of top-level experience. During the 2022/23 campaign, the midfielder played 26 Ligue 1 games for Rennes. Moreover, the French player came with European experience, having featured in seven Europa League games.

Pochettino started to ease Ugochukwu into the defensive midfield role from the bench and in the EFL Cup. Here, the midfielder showed his quality by winning tackles and headers and distributing the ball sensibly. In particular, Ugochukwu produced a solid display in Chelsea’s 2-0 EFL Cup win over Blackburn.

However, just as the French player was building form and looking like a solid addition, he suffered a hamstring injury and missed five months of the season.

Ugochukwu returned off the bench for the Blues 2-1 win at Brighton on Wednesday and there will be intrigue as to how he progresses after his first taste of English football this season.

Carney Chukwuemeka

Carney Chukwuemeka has endured two difficult seasons since joining Chelsea on a six-year contract from Aston Villa. Since arriving in summer 2022, Chukwuemeka has played just 23 matches for the Blues.

Throughout the 2022/23 season, Chukwuemeka was in and out of the Chelsea first-team and suffered a hamstring injury mid-way through the season.

After Pochettino’s arrival last summer, it appeared as though Chukwuemeka would be a valuable squad player. He came off the bench in Chelsea’s 2023/24 opener against Liverpool before starting and scoring against Chelsea in the following match at West Ham.

But the midfielder suffered a serious knee injury at the London Stadium. As a result, he missed most of the season.

Chukwuemeka has the potential to challenge Gallagher for the further forward midfield role in Pochettino’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation. As a result, Pochettino will hope to integrate the England youth player properly throughout pre-season in the hope he gets an injury-free 2024/25.

Ian Maatsen

22-year-old defender Ian Maatsen was a fringe player at Chelsea in the first half of the season. In January, the Dutch player joined Borussia Dortmund on a six-month loan.

Since his loan move, Maatsen has impressed in the left-back role, making two assists and two goals. The defender has also played in 20 of the 22 matches which he has been available for – highlighting his consistency.

Maatsen is scheduled to return to Chelsea at the end of the season, although his contract expires at Stamford Bridge this summer.

Following several strong performances in Dortmund, and helping BVB to reach the Champions League final, Pochettino may be tempted to offer Maatsen a long-term contract.

Online gambling has changed the way that people engage with casino games and betting. The benefits of online gambling are many too, from the convenience it has to offer increased safety measures and more. In just a few clicks, a football fan can access their favourite casino games, regardless of where in the world they are. This helps to eliminate the need to travel to a physical casino.

The fact that casino platforms are so accessible makes them ideal for those who have busy schedules or even limited access to land-based casinos.  Safety is another huge advantage of online gambling. Reliable gambling platforms work to prioritise the safety of their players by employing advanced encryption technology along with secure payment gateways. As a result of the gaming boom, more and more providers are now investing in a hybrid structure, so with the benefits listed above, it’s not hard to see why this is becoming the popular option.

Source: Pexels

The Rise of Hybrid Casinos

Hybrid casinos are on the rise now more than ever. At a hybrid casino like Habibibet.org, you can play online games for Arabs while being able to bet on football. So why is this so convenient? One reason is that you can use your winnings from a casino game to bet on the latest football matches. You can also rest assured knowing that any money you win from a match, can then be used to play slots. It’s really convenient and a great way to ensure that you can always access the entertainment you want with the money you have.

Online casinos and sportsbooks often have to follow the same rules regarding data protection too, so it makes sense for companies to invest in both alternatives. A lot of companies are also creating apps so that people can log in and deposit through their phones rather than having to load up a desktop website. For football fans, this is a game-changer, as people often find themselves frantically trying to log on to a betting site before a match is about to begin. Apps offer a new level of convenience and they make it easier than ever to pursue and play a range of games while providing access to the latest football odds.

Source: Pexels

Hybrid Casinos Offer the Best of Both Worlds

When you play games at a hybrid casino, you will notice that you can access the latest football odds with just a few clicks. Hybrid casinos also offer people the chance to access free spins, no deposit bonuses, as well as cashback on bets.

It may be that when you deposit a certain amount, you get a set amount of money as a free bet. Even though games can be played and sports can be bet on, the bonuses differ. A free bet cannot be used on a casino game and vice-versa. To combat confusion, sites often offer promotions such as free bets, or free spins, so clear distinctions can be made even if the site offers multiple gaming options.

Mauricio Pochettino has had a rollercoaster first season as Chelsea boss. The Argentinian coach was tasked with overseeing the Blues’ re-build, focused on bringing in bright stars leading to a £400 million outlay last summer.

Despite the lavish spending, it hasn’t been plain sailing for Pochettino or Chelsea in the 2023/24 season. The West Londoners have shown glimpses of quality and togetherness through EFL Cup final and FA Cup semi-final runs and a late push for European qualification in the Premier League.

However, losses to the likes of West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Everton, and Wolves have hindered what could have been a great campaign.

Pochettino’s side has also put together a strong winning run late in the season, leaving them with plenty of reasons to be confident heading into next season. Those who know how to bet on soccer are aware that the end of season form should be studied so there could be plenty of tips for Chelsea to make at least the top 4 next season. Chelsea has won four consecutive matches and looks well placed to hold sixth position and qualify for the Europa Conference League next season.

But, to elevate the Blues back to the top four, Poch must address these key areas ahead of 2024/25.

Defensive Improvements

Chelsea has the second-worst Premier League defensive record of teams placed 10th or above. In 37 matches, the Blues have conceded 62 goals this season.

Arguably, Pochettino has been unlucky with injuries. Key defenders Reece James and Ben Chillwell missed large spells of the season through injury. In addition, centre-back Wesley Fofana has not featured at all this season.

As a result, Chelsea largely relied on unproven partnerships. Pochettino placed his faith in Axel Disasi, Benoît Badiashile and 39-year-old Thiago Silva as the central defenders.

Disasi and Badiashile were two summer signings in 2023 and had unproven experience in the Premier League before this season. Silva’s experience meanwhile, while useful, is not a long-term solution to contend with the Blues’ defensive issues.

Silva announced that he will depart Chelsea at the end of this season, leaving Disasi and Badiashile as the likely centre-back duo for next season. Moreover, Fofana is expected to return in pre-season and could boost Pohcettino’s central defensive options with genuine Premier League experience.

However, to fill the void and complement the existing centre-backs, Chelsea will potentially need to dip into the transfer market. Ultimately, the Blues need a proven central defender, who is a capable leader in defence to replace Silva.

Raphael Varane, who becomes a free agent at the end of this season is one player who has been linked with Chelsea. Yet Pochettino may be hindered by financial constraints, considering the club spent over £400 million on transfers last summer.

Heart of the Midfield

Another area Pohcettino might look to improve is his central midfield position. The Blues have a wealth of young attacking players with potential. However, this depth isn’t complemented by a robust midfield.

In addition, Chelsea have conceded the seventh most goals from open play this season (42), with a further four goals coming from counter-attacks. As a result, the West London outfit could improve these stats with an experienced ball-winning defensive midfielder.

The deeper-lying pair of Enzo Fernandez and Moisés Caicedo have had solid, if uninspiring, seasons at Stamford Bridge. But the pair have lacked genuine competition to excel in their performance. Other than this duo, Pohcettino’s only other viable options in central midfield are Trevoh Chalobah, Lesley Ugochukwu or Cesare Casadei, who have made a combined 12 Premier League starts in the 2023/24 season.

To improve the deeper midfield areas, Pochettino could either focus on improving Chalobah or Ugochukwu, who have both had injury-disrupted seasons. Alternatively, the Argentinian coach might have to look at bringing in a quality challenger for Fernandez and Caicedo.

Partner for Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer has been Chelsea’s standout player in the 2023/24 campaign. The former Man City forward leads the Blues’ charts for goals (22) and assists (10), contributing to nearly a third of Chelsea’s 75 Premier League goals scored.

Palmer has led the line superbly for Chelsea and has shown the ability to finish and create from deeper areas. However, the pressure on the Blues’ key attacker has rarely been eased by his teammates.

Nicolas Jackson has endured a patchy first season in English football. The Senegalese summer signing has shown flashes of brilliance and notched a respectable 14 goals in his maiden Premier League campaign.

However, Jackson has somewhat underachieved considering he has the fifth-highest individual expected goals (19.51) in the Premier League this season. The 22-year-old has also outperformed Palmer in the individual XG charts, suggesting that he has been wasteful with chances.

However, if Pochettino can build Jackson’s confidence to finish effectively and ruthlessly, Chelsea’s frontline could be a serious force next season.

Moreover, Pochettino is also likely to have a fit Christopher Nkunku ready for next season. The former RB Leipzig attacker has made just two starts this season due to injury, but he has scored three goals for the Blues.

We’ve all been there before. You just finished watching a match, either in-person, from a pub, or on your couch at home, and you’re wondering how you can keep that match day fun going. Luckily, there are plenty of options out there, ranging from iGaming to sports betting and online forums. Here’s a quick breakdown of a few different ways you can keep that energy and level of entertainment going after the final whistle blows on the pitch.

Unwinding with iGaming

iGaming has absolutely boomed in recent years, and it’s no secret why. You can bring the atmosphere of the casino right into your own home thanks to live dealer games, virtual slots, lotteries, and more. An online casino is your one-stop shop for everything related to gambling and making a wager. Just like how on the field your team’s luck can change in a second, so can yours at an online casino. The excitement of a win and the tantalizing seconds as the dealer draws cards in Blackjack rival that feeling of watching your team score against their biggest enemies.

There’s also virtual sports betting, allowing you to continue watching your favourite sport go on even if there aren’t any matches being played. Virtual sports utilize algorithms and complex technology to create live simulations of virtual teams that duke them out on the pitch. You can pick one, place bets and watch them go up against other virtual teams in the league. It’s not as exciting as a live match, but it’s certainly a way to extend that game-day fun we all know and love.

Engaging with Online Communities

Online communities are another great way to keep that same energy from the match going. Sports betting forums are a great way to watch people analyze matches, players, coaching strategies, and talk about famous rivalries like West Ham and Chelsea FC. These people live and breathe football, making it a great place to provide your own two cents and maybe learn something new about Chelsea or any other football club. It might also open the door to sports betting for you and give you a new way to have fun after the match is over. You can opt to only bet on your favourite club or even bet on every sport in existence. These forums are a great way to connect with the community, learn something new, and have fun all at the same time.

Interactive Sports Content

On the other end of the spectrum, we have interactive sports content which takes the shape of live streams and sports-themed games. Live streams give you access to other matches going on that day, letting you continue with the energy you’ve developed watching one match and push it to the next one. There are tens of platforms out there offering football live streams, replays of previous matches, and other interactive features that turn your sports-watching game up a level.

Similarly, sports video games are another avenue to fun after a match ends. There’s a reason why FIFA is so popular even in the USA, where the word “football” means an entirely different sport. People love to take control of their favourite teams and players. Did Chelsea not play how you wanted them to? Load up a game and play the match how you felt it should’ve gone.

Fantasy Sports

Fantasy football is another great way to keep the fun going. Like iGaming, fantasy sports have also ballooned in popularity over the last two decades. What was a tedious pen-and-paper system with varying rules between friend groups is now standardized (for the most part) and done all with computers. Technology now allows us to constantly update scores, passes, and every other valuable statistic for fantasy football. No longer do you have to watch every match and note players’ performances. Computers do it all for you, making it more fun to draft your players, construct a team, and watch them go head-to-head with the other players in your league. There are plenty of free fantasy sites out there, with some even letting players make a prize pool and buy-ins to up the ante.

Social Activities and Fun

Virtual watch parties are another great way to socialize and get together with friends, even if you’re far apart or can’t make it to the field that day. It’s almost as if you’re all sitting on the same couch watching the game, but everyone is in the comfort of their own home — or even at work! There are platforms out there that help interested fans host watch parties, with some even having themed activities and games for you and your friends to partake in.

If you can all get together, you might want to go to a sports trivia night at a pub or other event space. Trivia nights are trendy these days, with specific niche trivia nights popping up all over. Look for one that covers football, and you’ll be able to spend a few hours with friends and family, competing for bragging rights and possibly even a prize.

Final Thoughts

In the end, there are a multitude of other ways to keep the energy from a match going long after it’s over. Whether you decide to do a little iGaming, make wagers on other matches, host a trivia night, or any of the other items on this list, you can’t go wrong. These are great ways to have fun, socialize, and make football a more enjoyable experience than it already is.

Debate regarding Chelsea’s elaborate spending in recent windows is for others to indulge in. For those at Stamford Bridge, focus has to remain narrowed on unlocking potential in a squad that has been assembled with one eye on the present, but another drifting towards the future.

Once everything clicks, the Blues will take some stopping – with the promise of more recruitment to come. Inevitably, sales will also form part of the rebuilding project.

There is plenty of talk to suggest that Raheem Sterling will be among those nudged towards revolving doors in west London.

Ambition

Raheem Sterling nets his first Chelsea goal 💙 pic.twitter.com/uB0izzuXIp

— GOAL (@goal) August 27, 2022

As a proven winner, the experienced winger is more determined than most to help turn the tide. He does, however, have domestic and international ambition to consider.

Sterling has slipped down England’s depth chart and may struggle to earn a place in a squad that anyone contemplating a EURO 2024 bet can get at 3/1 to savour continental glory.

The Three Lions are highly fancied in football betting guides and another golden generation of talent are eager to ensure that they do not squander any opportunities to get a success-starved nation back in the winning habit.

Sterling would have had his eyes on becoming a centurion at one stage, with 82 caps to his name, but that dream has been fading for a while.

Favouritism in the eyes of Gareth Southgate has slowly eroded, to the point that several other creative forwards have moved up the attacking pecking order.

Sterling’s form at Chelsea has, if truth be told, been doing little to aid his cause.

Having been a 20-goal-a-season performer at Manchester City, double figures have proved to be out of reach since returning to roots in the English capital.

Disgruntled supporters have been quick to air their frustration.

Mauricio Pochettino has said of the jeers being aimed in Sterling’s direction: “We need to support him, he’s an amazing player. He has more than 10 years of experience in the Premier League. Fans are entitled to show their emotion. For us, we try to emphasise to our fans not to criticise. They want the best for our team and players, but we are in a project.”

Sterling was supposed to be an integral part of that project.

The fact that he has failed to live up to expectations suggests that exit talk is unlikely to fade any time soon.

With big-spending outfits to be found in the United States and Middle East, it could be that Sterling ends up treading a similar career path to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Invested

We go again 🤟🏽 pic.twitter.com/kJncJcaxZk

— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) August 31, 2023

Chelsea has invested heavily in a bid to ensure that they are well-stocked in every area of the field.

That includes wide areas, and that could lead to Sterling being deemed surplus to requirements – especially with funds needing to be raised from sales at some point to help balance the books.

Pedigree will always be worth plenty in professional football, especially in the fiercely competitive Premier League, but Chelsea – who have been parting with plenty of pounds – must decide whether Sterling still holds any value.

It’s no secret that this season has been a massive disappointment for Chelsea FC. The Blues find themselves in 11th place (36 points) in the English Premier League, an astounding 27 points behind league-leading Liverpool (63 points). With nine matches remaining, the lone consolation for an overall wasted season may be securing a top-10 spot in the standings. But win or lose, real Chelsea fans still support the Blues.

So how can loyal supporters take their gameday experience to the next level and bring more joy to a challenging campaign? Whether watching from home or cheering on the Blues at Stamford Bridge, there are plenty of ways supporters can enhance their match day. From pre-match pump-up routines to creating unforgettable traditions, here are some tips to help you make the most of every game day.

Pre-Game Rituals to Pump Up Your Energy

Long before the match kicks off, get yourself in the right mindset by engaging in some pre-game rituals. Here are some ideas to help you get in the spirit to cheer on Cole Palmer and Co.:

• Start by wearing your team colors or jersey to show your support and get into the spirit of the game. While “Blue is the Colour,” Chelsea’s away kit features contrasting pitch blue and soar shades. When in doubt, just wear royal blue.
• Gather with fellow fans at a local pub or designated meeting spot to build excitement and camaraderie before heading to the stadium.
• Chant team songs and cheers like “Keep the Blue Flag Flying High” to boost morale and create a sense of unity.
• Fuel up with a hearty meal and hydrate to stay energized throughout the match.
• Lastly, bring flags, banners, or other team memorabilia to proudly display your allegiance and add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Whether it’s wearing your lucky old school Frank Lampard Chelsea jersey (oh, the good ol’ days), listening to your favorite pump-up playlist, or grabbing a pre-match pint with fellow supporters, find what works for you to get your energy levels up and ready to cheer on the Blues.

Tips for Enhancing Your Viewing Party

If you’re watching the game from home or at a local pub, consider hosting a viewing party to make the experience even more enjoyable. Decorate your space with Chelsea FC swag, prepare some delicious snacks and drinks (traditional English fare and blue-colored treats, of course), and invite friends and family to join in on the fun.

You can even organize some fun game day activities or competitions like trivia contests, prediction games, or casino game competitions to keep everyone engaged and excited throughout the match. You can find more info here about casinos with the best bonuses from UK sites to boost your chances of getting lucky before kickoff. Finally, make sure your viewing setup is top-notch with a large screen, surround sound and comfortable seating for everyone.

Maximizing Your Stadium Experience

If you’re lucky enough to attend a match at Stamford Bridge, make the most of your stadium experience by arriving early to soak in the atmosphere. Grab some merchandise from the club shop, indulge in some traditional match day food and drinks, and take in the sights and sounds of the stadium before kick-off.

Engage with fellow supporters to build camaraderie and share the excitement of the upcoming match. To enhance the experience during the game, participate in chants and cheers to show support for the team. Bring flags, scarves, or other team merchandise to create a vibrant and spirited atmosphere in the stands. Stay engaged with the game by following the action closely, celebrating goals and encouraging the players.

By immersing yourself fully in the matchday rituals, engaging with fellow supporters, and showing unwavering support for Chelsea FC, you can elevate your game day experience and create lasting memories.

Creating Memorable Game Day Traditions

To make each game day truly special, consider creating some memorable traditions that you can carry on throughout the season. Whether it’s a pre-match meal at your favorite local spot, a post-game victory dance, or a special chant that you do before every match, these traditions allow supporters to socialize, build camaraderie and get hyped up for the game together. Lastly, documenting these traditions through photos, videos, or journal entries can help preserve memories and create a sense of nostalgia for future game days.

You can elevate your Chelsea FC experience by incorporating these tips and ideas into your game day routine, and make each match day one to remember. Whether you’re watching from home, at a pub, or Samford Bridge, there are plenty of ways to enhance your support for the Blues and create lasting memories with your fellow supporters. So gear up and get ready to cheer as Chelsea tries to climb the Premier League table and make the rest of this season one to remember.

Football fans’ passion for the beautiful game extends far beyond action on the pitch. We always crave more, from the thrill of hearing the crowd roar, to tactical battles and electrifying moments of brilliance.

Luckily, technology offers us another means of prolonging this passion: online gaming. As well as classic console titles like FC 24, football-themed online slots allow us to bring the action directly into our own homes. Today, we explore deep this realm, taking a look at the many football-based casino titles available to play online.

The Classics

The security of online slots is incredibly important when real money is in play, and for that reason you should ensure that you play any of these classic titles on established, reputable operators.

Football Star Deluxe (Microgaming)

Transport yourself into the electrifying atmosphere of a packed stadium with this legendary slot from industry heavyweights Microgaming.

Rolling Reels generate cascading wins while Striking Wilds turn entire reels wild, echoing the unpredictable nature of football. Plus, with its lucrative free spins feature complete with multipliers, it feels just like scoring that winning goal in extra time.

Top Trumps Football Stars (Playtech)

This innovative slot allows you to create the team of your dreams by collecting iconic footballers like Messi and Ronaldo, each possessing unique “Team Power” abilities. Choose your formation, activate bonus rounds and watch as your heroes lead virtual victories. Top Trumps Football Stars offers both card collectors and football fanatics alike an engaging gaming experience.

Bicicleta (Yggdrasil)

This stunningly designed slot will transport you on an historical journey of iconic bicycle kicks, celebrating their artistry and skill. Innovative mechanics such as cascading wins, sticky wilds and increasing multipliers capture all of this drama and beauty perfectly, making this a must-play for footballing enthusiasts.

Mascot-Based Animal Football Fun

Foxin’ Wins Football Fever (NextGen Gaming)

Find some lighthearted fun with this charming slot, featuring an adorable fox mascot as you spin the reels, random bonuses, SuperBet options and playful wilds to keep things unpredictable and entertaining – an enjoyable take on football theme that offers something different than traditional slot machines. Perfect for anyone seeking some smiles along with their spins.

Soccer Safari (Microgaming)

This exclusive slot combines the excitement of football with the captivating atmosphere of an African safari adventure. Animal mascots representing different nations compete on vibrant reels with expanding wilds, cascading wins and an “Free Kick Frenzy” free spins round. Pick your corner wisely and watch as multipliers fly like goals in an impressive showdown.

Hot Shots (iSoftBet)

Get yourself immersed in a global football tournament with this action-packed slot from iSoftBet. Animal mascots representing various nations face off on the reels for fiery wilds, expanding symbols, and an amazing penalty shootout bonus round where you choose your corner to score some epic wins – a true celebration of diversity and footballing passion – perfect for fans who appreciate the international scene.

The Final Whistle

Remember, always check local regulations, set betting limits and treat slot games as entertainment rather than an easy path to riches. So pick your favorite, don your virtual kit, and get ready to experience football like never before – and who knows, maybe your next spin could lead you towards your dream winning goal.

Chelsea will face 9-time champion Liverpool in the 2024 Carabao Cup Final at Wembley Stadium on the 25th of February. Having struggled to win major silverware since 2021, beating Jurgen Klopp’s boys to the trophy could signify a turnaround to the remainder of their 2023/24 campaign.

Road to Wembley

Due to their non-involvement in European football, Chelsea began their Carabao Cup journey in the second round. The competition saw the top bookmakers providing the best online betting offers for new customers to wager on their preferred matches, including the Carabao Cup final.

Source: Pexels

Chelsea started with a 2-1 win over League Two side AFC Wimbledon before advancing to the third round to face their Premier League counterparts, Brighton & Hove Albion. They passed the test by defeating Roberto De Zerbi’s side, thanks to a lone goal from forward Nicolas Jackson. In the fourth round, Chelsea won convincingly – a 2-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers.

It didn’t get easier as the competition neared its end. Chelsea were drawn against a stubborn Newcastle side in the Quarterfinals, and they had to settle their contest via penalties after the game ended 1-1 in regular time. The semi-final was a two-legged tie, and Mauricio Pochettino’s boys had to face Middlesbrough. Despite a disappointing outing in the first leg, losing 1-0 at the Riverside stadium, the second leg witnessed a rejuvenated Chelsea squad, giving Boro no chance by putting 6 goals past Thomas Glover.

Can Pochettino Lead the Boys to Glory?

In his first reign as the Chelsea boss, Mauricio Pochettino will face one of his toughest opponents, Jurgen Klopp, in a cup final. Both coaches have met several times during Pochettino’s days with Tottenham Hotspur, including a Champions League final where the Argentine lost. Now, he has another chance against the German who recently announced his exit from Liverpool at the end of the season.

Chelsea have yet to be at their very best this season, and their position in the Premier League Standing confirms this. While it’s uncertain if they’ll make a spot for European competition next season, a win over Liverpool in February offers them a chance. With this reward and the prize money at stake, it could be enough motivation for Chelsea to clinch their first title under Mauricio Pochettino. The manager was close to winning this same title in the 2014/15 season with Spurs, finishing as runner-up as he lost to his now-present club. Winning it this time will require the gaffer and his boys to put in their best performance of the season as they face arguably the best team in the League who are looking to finish on a high note for their departing manager.

The Good Side

Whilst Liverpool might pose more of a threat ahead of the game, Chelsea have a few individual qualities that could punish the Reds. Cole Palmer is one of the standout players to look forward to. Unsurprisingly, he was awarded the man of the match in the second leg of the semi-finals against Middlesbrough after scoring two goals on the night.

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— Carabao Cup (@Carabao_Cup) January 25, 2024

Raheem Sterling is another outstanding talent in the Chelsea squad, who made the team for the semi-finals. On his good days, he can be challenging to stop. We could be in for a cracker with these players fit for this encounter.

🌟 It’s time for the @WhoScored Team of the Round for the Semi-Finals!

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— Carabao Cup (@Carabao_Cup) January 25, 2024

Conclusion

It could be the 6th title for Chelsea or a record 10 titles for Liverpool in the 64th season of the Carabao Cup. No doubt Liverpool are the favourites

Chelsea has sacked 15 managers since 2003, the most recent being Potter, dismissed in April 2023 after just seven months in charge. With this managerial turnover rate, current head coach Pochettino may join the dismissal list before the season ends.

According to journalist Matt Law, Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino is facing mounting pressure, though sources say the club plans to retain him until the season’s end. However, Pochettino must improve results by the new year, or he could still face the sack, as Chelsea has a history of abruptly changing managers.

No Surprise Here; Chelsea Is Most Likely to Make a Change

When Potter was hired from Brighton, he was seen as an innovative, long-term replacement for Tuchel, who was fired abruptly after barely 24 hours. However, Potter lasted less than seven months as Chelsea manager, winning 12 of 31 games before being sacked – the second coach dismissed since Todd Boehly took over ownership from Roman Abramovich.

Here is a table comparing the records of Mauricio Pochettino and Graham Potter as Chelsea managers:

The conclusion is that Chelsea has fared slightly better under Pochettino than Potter, but meeting that low bar should not be the aim. Chelsea sits 11th in the table with 31 points, ahead of League leaders Liverpool, who have 51 points after 23 matchdays.

Chelsea’s best displays came in the first three months under Potter, including home draws against Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City. Their worst performances – away losses to Newcastle, Manchester United, Middlesbrough and Liverpool, plus a home defeat to Wolves – have all come in the last three months.

This downward trajectory indicates deterioration in form rather than improvement under both managers.

AI Predictions on a New Chelsea Coach

Bookmakers are offering odds on who could replace Mauricio Pochettino if Chelsea decides to part ways with their 51-year-old manager. Calls are growing louder for Pochettino’s dismissal after Chelsea dropped into the Premier League’s bottom half following a 4-2 home defeat to Wolves. Even Thiago Silva’s wife has called for a change, with Pochettino seemingly unable to maximize the potential of Chelsea’s over £1 billion squad. Here are the top potential replacements being discussed for owner Todd Boehly to consider if Pochettino gets sacked:

José Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has declared his desire to return to the Premier League, though he has targeted the Manchester United job rather than his former club Chelsea. However, the “Special One” remains beloved by Chelsea fans, and if he could recapture the magic from his first two successful spells for a third stint, it would be a warm homecoming.

The currently unemployed Mourinho, 61, was fired by Roma last month. But his authoritarian approach could provide much-needed leadership for Chelsea’s young squad. Bookmakers are offering 4/1 odds of Mourinho replacing Pochettino.

Xavi

Barcelona icon Xavi announced he will leave the club after this season, wrapping up a successful spell as manager. Despite sitting seven points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid, Xavi’s coach stats indicate his tenure will be remembered positively.

Xavi steered Barcelona to last season’s league title amid financial turmoil, playing an attacking style the Chelsea board would likely demand from a Pochettino replacement. Bookmakers are offering 8/1 odds on former midfield maestro Xavi Hernandez.

Hans-Dieter “Hansi” Flick

Hansi Flick entered the German job with a strong reputation after leading Bayern Munich to a treble in 2019/20. However, he departed after a disappointing tenure that damaged his formerly stellar stock.

During his Bayern stint, Flick remarkably won six trophies in 2020 – a success Chelsea would hope he could replicate if hired to replace Pochettino. The currently available German tactician would also be an easier hire than other candidates since he is unattached.

Does Changing Coach in Football Have an Effect on Betting and Fans?

Switching managers can impact betting lines and fan expectations in football. Research shows teams often see a short-term boost after firing their boss, but in the long term, the effect fades, and they fare no better than clubs that stuck it out.

For supporters, managerial stability breeds team identity and allows long-term projects to bear fruit – see Klopp’s Liverpool or Guardiola’s Man City. The data backs this up: while sacked managers might not be getting the most out of the squad, their replacements mostly increase running stats rather than fundamentally changing the style of play.

Some interim bounce is expected, but betting markets and the fanbase have good reason to lose patience with clubs caught in a hire-fire cycle. Consistency in the dugout pays off more often than not. So, while an initial boost is likely if Pochettino gets replaced, people shouldn’t expect overnight transformation.

It’s important to note that the Blues have shown signs of life in cup competitions, qualifying for the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool later this month. According to the best EFL Cup betting sites, Chelsea has 3.84 odds to triumph over the Reds on February 25th. They also earned an impressive 3-1 away win over Aston Villa in the FA Cup.

The strategy of frequently changing managers has long been a hallmark of Chelsea’s philosophy under owner Roman Abramovich, much like at Real Madrid. Underperforming coaches get replaced, and their successors typically enjoy a short boost in results driven by fear of suffering the same fate.

Chelsea’s 2011-12 Champions League winning campaign illustrates this cycle. Andre Villas-Boas struggled as manager and was sacked in March 2012. It made Abramovich appoint his Assistant, Roberto Di Matteo, to take over on an interim basis. Soon after being appointed manager, Di Matteo brought in former Chelsea midfielder Eddie Newton as his assistant coach and promptly led the Blues on a trophy run – triumphing in the FA Cup and the club’s first-ever Champions League title. But despite this success, Di Matteo only lasted eight months before getting axed after a disappointing Champions League loss to Juventus.

The quick trigger fingers of Abramovich have been controversial but ultimately underpinned periods of Chelsea glory. Incoming managers know they must deliver instant results to survive at Stamford Bridge.

Patience with Pochettino Is the Best Long-Term Approach

While other big names like Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann, Roberto De Zerbi, and Arne Slot continue to be bandied about, Chelsea’s best route back to stability may simply be sticking with Pochettino for the remainder of the season.

However, if Chelsea’s poor Premier League form persists and Pochettino cannot lift them out of the bottom half, calls for yet another managerial casualty will only intensify.